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Creamy Make-Ahead Loaded Bacon Coleslaw

creamy make-ahead loaded bacon coleslaw - featured image

A creamy, smoky, and tangy coleslaw with crispy bacon and crunchy veggies that can be made ahead for easy entertaining or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, grated
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled. Save a bit of bacon fat if desired.
  2. While bacon cooks, finely shred the cabbage, grate the carrots, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley. Place all in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.
  4. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Add the crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish if desired) and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. If using, sprinkle in toasted sunflower seeds and chopped green onions or chives, then toss gently again.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  7. Before serving, gently stir the coleslaw and adjust seasoning with additional salt or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to render fat without burning. Drain bacon well to keep slaw from getting soggy. Shred cabbage finely for better dressing cling. Don’t overdress to avoid mushy texture. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Toss gently to avoid bruising cabbage.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, bacon coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, make-ahead side dish, loaded coleslaw, bacon recipe, barbecue side, potluck recipe